Maori tattoos are the most fascinating and sought-after in the world, each with a special meaning.
Their origins date back to the ancient peoples who inhabited the territories of present-day New Zealand thousands of years ago. The most representative themes are social communication, the depiction of battles, power, and family.
What are Maori tattoos?
Historically, Maori tattoos are tattoos mainly done on the face and head. The main reason for this choice dates back to the culture of the indigenous population, in which the head was considered the most sacred part of the body.
For these peoples, who have lived in the New Zealand area for over 3000 years, tattoos were a fundamental form of expression. In fact, tattoos were used to express individual personality, social status, and family caste. At the same time, this type of tattoo was used to intimidate opponents in battle, for example by showing the number of victims killed.
Meaning of the main symbols
The meaning of Maori tattoos depends on the symbols present in the design. Let’s consider the main ones.
Ta moko and meaning
Ta moko, or tamoko, is a type of tattoo traditionally used by men on the face. Culturally, the meaning of these tattoos is linked to the identity of the person wearing them.
Among the main elements that make up this type of symbol are spirals, which connect the lower part of the jaw to the cheeks, twisting around the nose.
The main reason for wearing them is to emphasize facial expressions. In addition, ta moko tattoos feature classic Maori lines called “manawa,” which represent the spiritual journey of life.
As for the female ta moko, the original motive was to communicate belonging to a man.
Koru and meaning
This type of symbol depicts a circle made of spirals, adorned with lines and internal strokes and mainly found on the face.
Through the koru, Maori tattoos can be made more complex by associating them with particular themes. In fact, according to Maori tradition, spirals are linked to hope and the wish for a better future.
Twist tattoos and meaning
